Congratulations to Tiretown members William E. Blake and Larry F. Thomas, who were recognized by the Akron Chapter of the Ohio Black Women’s Black Leadership Caucus for making a difference in the community.
The 34th Annual Salute to Significant African American Male’s breakfast was held January 13 at Our Lady of the Cedars, 507 S. Cleveland-Massillon Road in Fairlawn to a sold out crowd of 300 people. A total of 12 men were among the 2024 Honorees. The theme was Bridging the Gap: Unity, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion.
Blake joined Tiretown in 2020. He is quoted by the OBWLC as “a vibrant leader who is leaving his mark on Akron, OH through his dedicated efforts in arts and culture advocacy, community service and youth empowerment.”
He has more than a decade of experience in live production and shares his knowledge with students of his alma mater, KSU at Stark, through his company Cue Media.
Blake is actively involved in various organizations playing key roles in Tiretown, Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., Xi Chi Chapter (Executive Committee), ArtsNow Summit County Arts & Culture Inclusion Council (Communications Chair), Akron NAACP (3rd Vice President), and Akron Urban League’s Young Professionals (Programming Chair) and Director of Broadcast Production and Praise and Worship Leader at Faith Temple of Church of the Living God. He’s a volunteer for 100 Black Men of Akron’s “Tied to Success” initiative, a tutor at the Akron-Summit County Public Library Maple Valley Reading Connection and helps with fundraising efforts for Dreams Academy.
Larry Thomas joined Tiretown in 2018. He has been a great asset to the leadership team. OBWLC stated, “his innovative ideas, coupled with his steadfast commitment to connecting with members and the community, through an improved website, has enable the organization to expand its reach.”
Larry’s interests include computer technology, website development, woodworking, home improvement projects, golfing and amateur radio. Thomas retired from the City of Akron after serving 31 years as an engineering technician. He retired as Equal Employment Officer with supervisory responsibility for the clerical operation of the Bureau of Engineering. He works part time for G. Stephens, Inc, as a Contract Compliance Officer. He is the founder of Thomas Tax Service of Ohio. He has been a tax preparation specialist since 2008. He chaired the Father Initiative Program, was the former Associate Editor of the Sphinx and maintained the Alpha Phi Alpha Eta Tau Lambda Chapter’s website. He is a member of the House of the Lord.
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